Stylus for electronic devices

ABSTRACT

Touch-based input devices, such as a stylus, can receive tactile input from a user. The tactile input functions can be performed by a touch sensor, such as a capacitive sensing device. A touch sensor can be integrated into a stylus in a low profile form. Wireless charging and magnetic coupling with a host device are also facilitated. The stylus can be provided with the above features in a small form factor that improves a user experience with the stylus.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/833,369, filed Mar. 27, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 16/231,058, filed Dec. 21, 2018, issued as U.S.Pat. No. 10,627,923, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/733,020, entitled “STYLUS FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES,”filed Sep. 18, 2018, the entirety of each of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present description relates generally to input devices, and, moreparticularly, to a stylus for use with a touch screen of an electronicdevice.

BACKGROUND

A variety of handheld input devices exist for detecting input from auser during use. For example, a stylus can be utilized to provide inputby contacting a touch panel of an electronic device. The touch panel mayinclude a touch sensitive surface that, in response to detecting a touchevent, generates a signal that can be processed and utilized by othercomponents of the electronic device. A display component of theelectronic device may display textual and/or graphical display elementsrepresenting selectable virtual buttons or icons, and the touchsensitive surface may allow a user to navigate the content displayed onthe display screen. Typically, a user can move one or more inputdevices, such as a stylus, across the touch panel in a pattern that thedevice translates into an input command.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain features of the subject technology are set forth in the appendedclaims. However, for purpose of explanation, several embodiments of thesubject technology are set forth in the following figures.

FIG. 1 illustrates a view of a system including a stylus and a hostdevice, according to some embodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram illustrating the stylus and the hostdevice of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exploded view of various components and subsystemsof a stylus.

FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of various components and subsystemsof the stylus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of various components and subsystemsof a rear portion of the stylus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of various components and subsystemsof a front portion of the stylus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of various components and subsystemsof a coordination engine assembly of the stylus of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 illustrates an enlarged view of an end of the coordination engineassembly of the stylus of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a stylus, according to someembodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side sectional view of the section A-A of thestylus of FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front sectional view of the section B-B of thestylus of FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of a touch sensor, according to someembodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of a stylus, according to someembodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of a stylus, according to someembodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of a stylus, according to someembodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 16 illustrates a top view of an elastic insert, according to someembodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 17 illustrates a side sectional view of the section E-E of theelastic insert of FIG. 16, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology.

FIG. 18 illustrates a side sectional view of the section C-C of thestylus of FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology.

FIG. 19 illustrates a front sectional view of the section D-D of thestylus of FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology.

FIG. 20 illustrates a perspective view of a stylus and host device,according to some embodiments of the subject technology.

FIG. 21 illustrates a front view of a stylus and host device, accordingto some embodiments of the subject technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description ofvarious configurations of the subject technology and is not intended torepresent the only configurations in which the subject technology may bepracticed. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitutea part of the detailed description. The detailed description includesspecific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understandingof the subject technology. However, it will be clear and apparent tothose skilled in the art that the subject technology is not limited tothe specific details set forth herein and may be practiced without thesespecific details. In some instances, well-known structures andcomponents are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuringthe concepts of the subject technology.

Some electronic devices that include a display surface and/or a touchpanel receive tactile input from a user. For example, a stylus can beutilized to provide input by contacting a touch panel of an electronicdevice. The touch panel may include a touch sensitive surface that, inresponse to detecting a touch event, generates a signal that can beprocessed and utilized by other components of the electronic device. Adisplay component of the electronic device may display textual and/orgraphical display elements representing selectable virtual buttons oricons, and the touch sensitive surface may allow a user to navigate thecontent displayed on the display screen. Typically, a user can move oneor more input devices, such as a stylus, across the touch panel in apattern that the device translates into an input command.

Furthermore, while the user is holding a stylus or other touch-basedinput device, the user may be limited to the input options providedthereby. Accordingly, additional input capabilities that are integratedinto the input device would provide the user with expanded inputcapabilities without the need to simultaneously operate additional inputdevices.

In accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, components of a stylusand the assembly thereof can be provided in a manner that facilitatescapacitive touch input, magnetic coupling with a host device, andwireless charging from the host device.

In accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, a stylus can receivetactile input from a user. The tactile input functions can be performedby a touch sensor, such as a capacitive sensing device. A touch sensorcan be integrated into an input device in a low profile form thatfacilitates assembly and securement of the components of the stylus.

In accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, a stylus can performinteractions with a host device, such as wireless charging and magneticcoupling. By providing wireless charging and magnetic coupling to a hostdevice, the stylus can be operated without requiring mechanical couplingto the host device or another charging unit. Accordingly, the componentsof the stylus are not subjected to excessive mechanical stresses thatwould otherwise be required with charging system that requires amechanical connection (e.g., plug).

In accordance with embodiments disclosed herein, a stylus can beprovided with the above features in a small form factor that improves auser experience with the stylus. The components of the stylus areassembled in a manner that provides performance of the above functionswhile maintaining the components in a secure arrangement. For example,the touch sensor is provided with a precise fit within a housing toprovide accurate touch detection, despite the presence of othercomponents that also fit within the housing.

These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS.1-20. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thedetailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is forexplanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

A touch-based input device in accordance with embodiments disclosedherein can include any device that is held, worn, or contacted by a userfor providing input and/or receiving feedback. The touch-based inputdevice can be used alone or in conjunction with another device. Forexample, FIG. 1 illustrates a system 1 including a stylus 100 and a hostdevice 90 having a surface 50, according to some embodiments of thesubject technology. The stylus 100 can be held by a user 10 and operateas a touch-based input device for use with the host device 90.

The surface 50 of the host device 90 can include a display surfaceand/or a touch panel for interacting with the stylus 100 when contactedthereby. The host device 90 utilizes the display to render images toconvey information to the user. The display can be configured to showtext, colors, line drawings, photographs, animations, video, and thelike. The surface 50 of the host device 90 can be implemented with anysuitable technology, including, but not limited to, a multi-touch and/ormulti-force sensing touchscreen that uses liquid crystal displaytechnology, light-emitting diode technology, organic light-emittingdisplay technology, organic electroluminescence technology, electronicink, or another type of display technology or combination of displaytechnology types.

The stylus 100 can include a tip 190 for contacting the surface 50. Suchcontact can be detected by the host device 90 and/or the stylus 100. Forexample, the stylus 100 can include one or more sensors that detect whenthe tip 190 contacts and applied pressure to the surface 50. Suchsensors can include one or more contact sensors, capacitive sensors,touch sensors, cameras, piezoelectric sensors, pressure sensors,proximity sensors, electric field sensors, photodiodes, and/or othersensors operable to detect contact with the surface 50. Such sensors canoptionally operate cooperatively with the host device 90 to detectcontact with the surface 50.

As shown in FIG. 2, the stylus 100 can include components that supporthandling and operation by a user. Inputs can be provided by a user atone or more components of the stylus 100.

A force sensor 192 can be operated to detect user inputs at the tip 190of the stylus 100. The force sensor 192 can interact with both the tip190 and the housing 110 to detect relative motion of the tip 190 and thehousing 110. For example, the force sensor 192 can be operated to detectwhen the tip 190 is contacting a surface, such as the surface of thehost device 90. The detection can be based on movement of the tip 190relative to the housing 110. Accordingly, the force sensor 192 can bedirectly or indirectly connected to both the tip 190 and the housing 110to detect relative motion there between. The force sensor 192 caninclude a component that converts mechanical motion of the tip 190 intoan electric signal. The force sensor 192 can include one or more contactsensors, capacitive sensors, touch sensors, strain gauges, cameras,piezoelectric sensors, pressure sensors, photodiodes, and/or othersensors. The force sensor 192 can detect both the presence and magnitudeof a force.

In use, a user may manipulate the stylus 100 and apply a force to asurface of the host device 90. A corresponding reaction force may betransferred through the tip 190 of the stylus 100 connected to anelectromechanical coupling and to the force sensor 192 of the stylus100. The force sensor 192, or a portion thereof, may deform in responsewhich may be measured and used to estimate the applied force. The forcesensor 192 can be used to produce a non-binary output that correspondsto the applied force. For example, the force sensor 192 can be used toproduce an output that represents a magnitude that varies in accordancewith a variable amount of applied force.

A touch sensor 200 can be provided to detect contact by a user on a gripregion of the housing 110 of the stylus 100. The touch sensor 200 caninclude a capacitive touch sensor, such as a self-capacitance sensor. Asdescribed further herein, the touch sensor 200 can include multiplesensing elements, such as conductive electrodes, to detect contact andchanges in contact at multiple locations.

As further shown in FIG. 2, the stylus 100 can include a controller 160and a non-transitory storage medium 162. The non-transitory storagemedium 162 can include, for example, a magnetic storage medium, opticalstorage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read-only memory, randomaccess memory, erasable programmable memory, flash memory, orcombinations thereof. According to some embodiments, the controller 160can execute one or more instructions stored in the non-transitorystorage medium 162 to perform one or more functions.

As further shown in FIG. 2, the stylus 100 can include a power source164, such as one or more batteries and/or power management units. Thestylus 100 can include components for charging the power source 164,such as a power module 166. The power module 166 can include one or morecomponents for receiving and/or transmitting power wirelessly (e.g.,inductively), for example from the host device 90.

The stylus 100 can include a communication component (not shown) forcommunicating with the host device 90 and/or another device. Thecommunication component can include one or more wired or wirelesscomponents, WiFi components, near field communication components,Bluetooth components, and/or other communication components. Thecommunication component can include one or more transmission elements,such as one or more antennas. Alternatively or in combination, thecommunication component can include an interface for a wired connectionto the host device 90 and/or another device.

The stylus 100 can include other components including, but not limitedto, displays, sensors, switches (e.g., dome switches), buttons, voicecoils, and/or other components. The stylus 100 can detect environmentalconditions and/or other aspects of the operating environment of thestylus 100 with an environmental sensor such as an ambient light sensor,proximity sensor, temperature sensor, barometric pressure sensor,moisture sensor, and the like. The stylus 100 can include a hapticfeedback component that provides haptic feedback with tactile sensationsto the user. The haptic feedback component can be implemented as anysuitable device configured to provide force feedback, vibratoryfeedback, tactile sensations, and the like. For example, in oneembodiment, the haptic feedback component may be implemented as a linearactuator configured to provide a punctuated haptic feedback, such as atap or a knock. The stylus 100 can detect motion characteristics of thestylus 100 with a motion sensor such as an accelerometer, a gyroscope, aglobal positioning sensor, a tilt sensor, and so on for detectingmovement and acceleration of the stylus 100. The stylus 100 can detectbiological characteristics of the user manipulating the stylus with abiosensor that detects skin temperature, heart rate, respiration rate,blood oxygenation level, blood volume estimates, blood pressure, or acombination thereof. The stylus 100 can quantify or estimate a propertyof an object nearby or otherwise external to the stylus 100 with autility sensor such as magnetic field sensors, electric field sensors,color meters, acoustic impedance sensors, pH level sensor, materialdetection sensor, and so on. Such data may be used to adjust or updatethe operation of the stylus 100 and/or may communicate such data to thehost device 90 to adjust or update the operation thereof.

The host device 90 can also include components that facilitate operationof the stylus 100. For example, the host device 90 can include one ormore of a processor, a memory, a power supply, one or more sensors, oneor more communication interfaces, one or more data connectors, one ormore power connectors, one or more input/output devices, such as aspeaker, a rotary input device, a microphone, an on/off button, a mutebutton, a biometric sensor, a camera, a force and/or touch sensitivetrackpad, and so on. In some embodiments, a communication interface ofthe host device 90 facilitates electronic communications between thehost device 90 and the stylus 100.

As noted with respect to many embodiments described herein, a stylusconfigured to provide input capabilities and wireless charging may beconstructed in a manner that facilitates these functions in a compactform. Generally and broadly, embodiments described herein provide touchsensing capabilities on an outer surface of the stylus, magneticcomponents for coupling to a host device, and wireless chargingcomponents for receiving power from the host device. One such examplestylus is described below with reference to FIGS. 3-7. However, it maybe appreciated that the generalized layout presented therein anddescribed below are merely one example and that other embodiments can beimplemented in different ways.

FIGS. 3-7 depict various components of a stylus 100 in exploded views.To facilitate an understanding of the interoperation and assembly of thevarious components of the stylus 100, FIGS. 3-7 are provided, showing anexploded view of the stylus 100 (e.g., FIG. 3), an exploded view offront and rear internal components of the stylus 100 (e.g., FIG. 4), anexploded view of rear components of the stylus 100 (e.g., FIG. 5), anexploded view of front components of the stylus 100 (e.g., FIG. 6), andexploded view of a coordination engine assembly of the stylus 100 (e.g.,FIG. 7).

Referring to FIG. 3, the stylus 100 of the illustrated embodimentincludes a housing 110. The housing 110 is hollow. The housing 110 maytake various forms to facilitate convenient, familiar, and comfortablemanipulation or the stylus 100 by a user. In the illustrated example,the housing 110 has the general form of a writing instrument, such as apen or a pencil. The housing 110 is generally cylindrical with a flatportion 114 providing an exterior surface on a side thereof. The housing110 can be formed from plastics, metals, ceramics, laminates, glass,sapphire, wood, leather, synthetic materials, or any other material orcombination of materials.

The housing 110 can be configured to connect or be bonded to a cap 198at an end of the housing 110. The cap 198 may be configured to provide acosmetic end to the housing 110 of the stylus 100. The cap 198 forms asubstantially continuous external surface with the housing 110 whenattached to the housing 110. The cap 198 may be formed from any suitablematerial, such as, but not limited to, metal, plastic, glass, ceramic,sapphire, and the like or combinations thereof. In many cases, the cap198 is formed from the same material as the housing 110, although thisis not required. In some embodiments, the cap 198 may be configured,entirely or partially, as a signal diffuser to diffuse an infraredsignal or another optical signal, such as a multi-color light-emittingdiode. In other cases, the cap 198 may be configured, entirely orpartially, as an antenna window, allowing for wireless communicationsand/or electric fields to pass there through. As illustrated, the cap198 terminates in a rounded end, although this is not required of allembodiments. In some embodiments, the cap 198 terminates as a plane. Inother embodiments, the cap 198 terminates in an arbitrary shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 110 tapers at one end. Thetapered end of the housing 110 is identified in the figure as thetapered end 110 a. As illustrated, the tapered end 110 a may be formedintegrally with the housing 110. In other embodiments, the tapered end110 a is a separate piece from the housing 110. A tip 190 is partiallydisposed within the tapered end 110 a. Other portions of the tip 190 areattached, either permanently or removably, to the end of the tapered end110 a from the exterior thereof. The tip 190 generally takes a conicalshape, however such a shape is not required of all embodiments. The tip190 may be configured to removably or permanently engage with a portionof a coordination engine assembly (described in detail below) disposedwithin the housing 110. The tip 190 may be configured to contact aninput surface of an electronic device. The tip 190 may taper to a point,similar to a pen, so that the user may control the stylus 100 withprecision in a familiar form factor. In some examples, the tip 190 maybe blunt or rounded, as opposed to pointed, or may take the form of arotatable or fixed ball.

As shown in FIG. 3, an internal assembly 400 can be provided forinsertion into the housing 110 during assembly. The internal assembly400 can assembled together before, during, or after at least partialinsertion of components thereof into the housing 110. Insertion can beprovided through an end of the housing that is subsequently covered withthe cap 198. The tip 190 can be connected to the internal assemblythrough the tapered end 110 a of the housing 110 after the internalassembly 400 is inserted and/or secured within the housing 110. Theinternal assembly 400 can include a support member 402 that furtherincludes a front frame of a front assembly and a rear frame of a rearassembly, as discussed further herein.

Referring now to FIG. 4, The internal assembly 400 can include a frontassembly 410 and a rear assembly 460 that are mechanically and/oroperatively connected together to provide internal and functionalcomponents of the stylus. A wireless power receiver 450 can be providedat least partially within or adjacent to a window 416 provided betweenthe front assembly 410 and the rear assembly 460, as discussed furtherherein. Provision of the wireless power receiver 450 within the window416 can avoid interference and/or blocking of wireless signals to thewireless power receiver 450.

The stylus 100 can include a touch sensor 200 to be wrapped about atleast the front assembly 410. The touch sensor 200 can be a capacitivetouch sensor that extends along at least a portion of a length of thestylus 100 when assembled. The touch sensor 200 can extend at leastpartially within a grip region of the stylus 100. Additionally oralternatively, the touch sensor 200 can extend to and/or at leastpartially within a tip 190 of the stylus 100. Additionally oralternatively, the touch sensor 200 can extend to an end of the stylus100 that is opposite the tip 190. The touch sensor 200 can be used todetect contact with or proximity to a finger of the user. Additionallyor alternatively, the touch sensor 200 can be used to detect contactwith or proximity to another object, such as a surface to which thestylus is applied. The stylus 100 can include multiple touch sensors200. Each of the multiple touch sensors 200 can extend within adifferent portion of the housing 110. The touch sensors 200 can bespaced apart from each other. At least one of the touch sensors 200 canextend along the grip region. Gestures detected by the separate touchsensors 200 can be interpreted as different user inputs according topreprogrammed functions to be performed by the stylus 100 and/or a hostdevice upon detection of the user gestures. The touch sensor 200 can bepositioned at and/or extend to an end of the stylus 100 that is oppositethe tip 190.

As shown in FIG. 4, one or more lids 490 can be included to covercorresponding windows that provide openings through a periphery of thefront assembly 410 and/or the rear assembly 460, as discussed furtherherein.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, a frame assembly can include a frontframe 420 and a rear frame 470, which are joined together to houseand/or support various components and provide wireless communicationand/or charging between the stylus and the host device. The front frame420 and/or the rear frame 470 are configured to slide into the interiorvolume of the housing 110 and may provide structural support mountingfeatures for the various internal components of the stylus 100. Thefront frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 has a shape that correspondsto the shape of the housing 110. In this case, the front frame 420and/or the rear frame 470 can take a substantially cylindrical shape. Insome examples, the front frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 can includeone or more electrically insulating layers disposed on an exteriorsurface thereof. The electrically insulating layers can prevent thefront frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 from interfering with theoperation of one or more circuits within the stylus 100. In otherexamples, the front frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 can beelectrically connected to one or more circuits. In many examples, thefront frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 can serve as a system ground,proving an electrical ground for all (or substantially all) theelectrical circuits disposed within the stylus 100. In other cases, thefront frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 can also serve as a groundplane for one or more antenna elements.

The front frame 420 and/or the rear frame 470 may also include one ormore access or assembly windows. The assembly windows may be included tofacilitate simplified manufacturing of the stylus 100. For example, theassembly window can be defined in the front frame 420 and/or the rearframe 470 adjacent a location at which a hot bar operation is desired orpreferred to electrically couple one component to another, when bothcomponents are already disposed within the front frame 420 and/or therear frame 470. In other examples, the assembly windows can be definedadjacent to a location at which a connection between two separatecircuits is made via a connector. In some cases, an assembly window maynot be required.

In some examples, assembly windows may be covered once the manufacturingoperation necessitating the assembly window is completed. In some cases,the assembly window can be covered by an electrically conductive tape.In another case, the assembly window can be covered by welding a plateover the assembly window. As may be appreciated, the cover disposed overthe assembly window in certain embodiments may be electricallyconductive in order to provide electromagnetic shielding to theelectronic elements that are disposed within the frame assembly.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the rear assembly 460 can include a rear frame470 and components supported thereby. As shown in FIG. 5, the rear frame470 can define at least a portion of the charging window 416 as a voidor open space extending through the rear frame 470. At least a portionof the charging window 416 can also be defined by the front frame 420.Similarly, the rear frame 470 can further define a rear window 496 as avoid or open space extending through the rear frame 470 and forreceiving a rear magnet 498, as discussed further herein.

As further shown in FIG. 5, a battery pack 384 may be provided forinsertion within the rear frame 470. The battery pack 384 can include alithium-polymer battery pack or a lithium ion battery. However, in otherembodiments, alkaline batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metalhydride batteries, or any other suitable rechargeable or one-time-usebatteries may be used. The battery pack 384 can include one or moreleads that are configured to permanently or removably attach to theprocessing unit circuit board set 356 (see FIG. 6). The battery pack 384includes a power control board 388, which includes circuitry configuredto control the charge and/or discharge rate of the battery pack 384.

As further shown in FIG. 5, an antenna assembly 324 can be provided forwireless communication. The antenna assembly 324 can include an antenna324 a, an antenna support block 324 b, a transmission line 324 c, and aconnector 324 d. The antenna 324 a is disposed onto or otherwise coupledto the antenna support block 324 b. In some embodiments, the antennasupport block 324 b is formed from a dielectric material, such asplastic. The antenna support block 324 b defines an internal volume. Theinternal volume of the antenna support block 324 b can be sized and/orotherwise configured to retain other components of the stylus 100. Theconnector 324 d may be configured to directly connect to a connector onthe processing unit circuit board set 356 (see FIG. 6). In many cases,the connector 324 d and the transmission line 324 c may be shielded sothat signals passing there through are not affected by externalinterference and, oppositely, the signals passing there through do notaffect any components within the stylus 100. The transmission line 324 cmay be configured to run alongside or adjacent to the battery pack 384when the antenna assembly 324 and the battery pack 384 are assembledwithin the rear frame 470. The transmission line 324 c is generallyaligned to be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stylus. As notedabove, the antenna assembly 324 is partially inserted into the rearframe 470 so that the antenna 324 a protrudes beyond an end of the rearframe 470 and is not covered by the rear frame 470. Additionally oralternatively, the antenna 324 a can be aligned with a window in therear frame 470. In some cases, the transmission line 324 c can beseparated from an inner surface of the rear frame 470 by a compressibleelement 396. The compressible element 396 includes a compressible foamand/or one or more binding elements (e.g., tape). The binding elementscan attach the compressible foam of the compressible element 396 and thetransmission line 324 c to the battery pack 384.

Referring now to FIG. 6, the front assembly 410 can include a frontframe 420 and components supported thereby. As shown in FIG. 6, thefront frame 420 can define at least a portion of the charging window 416as a void or open space extending through the front frame 420. At leasta portion of the charging window 416 can also be defined by the rearframe 470. Similarly, the front frame 420 can further define a frontwindow 446 as a void or open space extending through the front frame 420and for receiving a front magnet 448, as discussed further herein.

The front assembly 410 can include a coordination engine assembly 310for detecting force-based inputs at the tip 190, as discussed furtherherein. The coordination engine assembly 310 can be inserted within thefront frame 420. A support collar 316 and a flanged nut 318 are providedto support the coordination engine assembly 310 within the front frame420. The flanged nut 318 can be welded, soldered, or otherwisepermanently adhered to the front frame 420. The front frame 420 can takethe shape of a sleeve that inserts within the housing. The front frame420 can be fixed with respect to an interior surface of the housing. Thesupport collar 316 can be connected to the flanged nut 318. In someexamples, the support collar 316 abuts a lip or ring within an interiorsurface of the housing.

A processing unit circuit board set 356 can be provided, for example,within the front frame 420. The processing unit circuit board set 356may include one or more substrates on or through which one or moreelectronic components are disposed. These components may be surfacemount or through-hole components. Components may be attached to bothsides of the substrate. The substrate can be a single layer circuitboard, a multi-layer circuit board, or a flexible circuit board. In someexamples, a flexible circuit board can be used that is made rigid withone or more stiffeners. The processing unit circuit board set 356 can beoperably connected to other components of the stylus, include the powercontrol board 388 of the battery pack 384, the antenna assembly 324(e.g., via the connector 324 d), and the wireless power receiver 450.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the coordination engine assembly 310 caninclude components for detecting forces and orientations of the stylus.The coordination engine assembly 310 includes a rigid signal conduit 310a and a force-sensitive structure 310 b.

In some examples, the force-sensitive structure 310 b can include alateral bed with two cantilevered legs extending from each end of thelateral bed. In some embodiments, the force-sensitive structure 310 balso includes an element that exhibits an electrically-measurableproperty that changes as a function of the magnitude of force applied.In one example, a strain-sensitive electrode 338 may be coupled to aportion of the force-sensitive structure 310 b. The strain-sensitiveelectrode 338 can be coupled to an electrical circuit within the stylus100. The electrical circuit can be configured to monitor one or moreelectrical properties (e.g., resistance, capacitance, accumulatedcharge, inductance, and so on) of the strain-sensitive electrode 338 forchanges. The electrical circuit then quantifies these changes which maybe used to estimate the applied force. Thereafter, the stylus 100 cancommunicate the applied force to the electronic device, which may beinterpreted as a user input. In other embodiments, the deflection of theforce-sensitive structure 310 b can be measured in another manner suchas with, but not limited to: optical sensors; acoustic sensors;resonance sensors; peizoresistive sensors; and so on.

The rigid signal conduit 310 a includes a tubular shield 340. Thetubular shield 340 includes a hollow portion and tray portion. Thetubular shield 340 may provide electromagnetic shielding for electricalconduit (e.g., signal lines, traces, and so on) that passes through thehollow portion. The tubular shield 340 may also be configured to providerigid structural support to transfer reaction forces applied to theforce-sensitive structure 310 b without substantial deflection orbuckling. The tray portion of the tubular shield 340 may be configuredto receive, support, and partially enclose a control board 342.

The rigid signal conduit 310 a also includes a core insert 346. The coreinsert 346 includes a body 350 and a flexible circuit 352. The body 350of the core insert 346 may be configured to be inserted within thetubular shield 340. The flexible circuit 352 of the core insert 346 maybe configured to couple to the control board 342.

The stylus can create substantially-spherical electric fields at thetip, which affect the mutual capacitance of each capacitive sensing nodenearby the tip. The host device can locate the stylus on the inputsurface by monitoring each capacitive sensing node for these capacitivechanges and estimating the location at which such changes (if any) haveoccurred.

The core insert can include multiple conductive components on a surfaceof the body 350. These can serve as electric field generators togenerate a tip field and a ring field (which may be detected by acoordination engine of an electronic device). As shown in FIG. 8, a pairof distal generators 354 a and 354 b can extend partially about acircumference of the body 350. The distal generators 354 a and 354 b canbe axially aligned, so that they, together, extend about a majority ofthe circumference. The distal generators 354 a and 354 b can be radiallyopposite a central axis of the body 350.

A proximal generator 348 can be provided as a ring or other shape thatextends about the body 350. The proximal generator 348 can be coaxiallyaligned with the distal generators 354 a and 354 b. Accordingly, thefields generated thereby are axially symmetrical. The proximal generator348 is separated from the distal generators 354 a and 354 b by an axialdistance.

The core insert 346 defines several signal paths there through. In oneexample, the core insert 346 defines three distinct signal paths 364 a,364 b, and 358, configured to convey the signals to and/or from to thefirst distal generator 354 a, the second distal generator 354 b, and theproximal generator 348, respectively.

The first distal generator 354 a, the second distal generator 354 b, andthe proximal generator 348 can be formed in any suitable manner. In manycases, many examples (and as illustrated), the generators are around(and/or partially within) the core insert 346. For example, thegenerators are formed on an external surface of the core insert 346. Thegenerators can be disposed onto the external surface of the core insert346 using any number of suitable manufacturing techniques, including,but not limited to: physical vapor deposition, pulsed laser deposition,self-adhering conductive film, metallic leafing techniques, metallicplating techniques, and so on. In other cases, the generators may be asolid metal piece that is insert-molded into the core insert 346.

As noted above, the first distal generator 354 a, the second distalgenerator 354 b, and the proximal generator 348 may each be configuredto generate an electric field that is approximately spherical in naturewhen estimated from a particular distance. In other words, thegenerators may function, substantially, as a field source. The fieldgenerated by a ring-shaped field source (proximal generator 348) or twoarc-shaped field sources (distal generator 354 a and second distalgenerator 354 b) is substantially spherical if measured from a distancegreater than the radius of the generators. With respect to thearc-shaped field sources, they can be operated in tandem with the samesignal output so that they, together, produce a field that is similar toa field generated by a continuous ring. At a certain distance away fromthe arc-shaped field sources, the field is the same as one that could begenerated by a continuous ring or a point source.

While the first distal generator 354 a, the second distal generator 354b, and the proximal generator 348 can be operated as electric fieldgenerators, they can also be operated as input modules during assemblyof the stylus. For example, a stylus may lack certain externalmechanisms for communicatively docking with another device. As such, thegenerators can be used as a communication port for programming,diagnosing, and repairing the stylus. Where the generators provide threedistinct connections, each can provide separate communication with thecontrol board and/or the processing unit circuit board set of thestylus. For example, the generators can be used as a transmit channel, areceiving channel, and a ground channel. By further example, thegenerators can be used as an anode, a cathode, and a ground electrode.Any one or more of the generators can serve as any one or more of theabove. Accordingly, the stylus can be communicatively connected toanother device via physical connections that provide electricalcommunication with at least three ports. Such connections can beconcealed after assembly and optionally accessed by partial disassemblyof the stylus.

Referring now to FIG. 9, the stylus 100 can support handling andoperation by a user. In particular, the stylus 100 can receive inputsfrom a user at a location of the user's grip. FIG. 9 illustrates astylus 100, according to some embodiments of the subject technology.According to some embodiments, for example as illustrated in FIG. 9, thestylus 100 can include a housing 110 that provides an outermost coveralong at least a portion of the length of the stylus 100. A user cangrip the stylus 100 at a user grip region 104 during use of the stylus100. The user grip region 104 can be located at a natural grip location,so that the user can provide inputs at the same location that is graspedduring normal use of the stylus 100. For example, the user grip region104 can be located an outer surface of the housing 110. The user gripregion 104 can be near the tip 190 of the stylus 100. For example, thelocation of the user grip region 104 can be a distance from the tip 190that is less than a half, a third, or a quarter of the total length ofthe stylus 100. At the user grip region 104, components of the stylus100 can be positioned to receive tactile input from the user. Forexample, the user grip region 104 can be a portion of the housing 110.Alternatively or in combination, the user grip region 104 can include aninput component set within the housing 110, such as a button, switch,knob, lever, and/or another input component. According to someembodiments, a marker can be provided on the outer surface 112 as anindicator for the location of the user grip region 104. The marker canbe flush with neighboring portions of the outer surface, such that itcan be seen but provide the same tactile features as other portions ofthe housing 110. Alternatively or in combination, the marker can providea protrusion, recess, or texture that provides surface features that aredifferent from adjacent portions of the housing 110.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, the stylus 100 can receive tactileinput from the user at the user grip region 104 with a touch sensor 200.FIG. 10 illustrates a side sectional view of the stylus 100 taken alongline A-A of FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of the subjecttechnology. FIG. 11 illustrates a front sectional view of the stylus 100taken along line B-B of FIG. 9, according to some embodiments of thesubject technology. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the stylus 100 caninclude a front magnet 448 that is within the housing 110. The frontmagnet 448 can be positioned within a front window 446 of the frontframe 420. At least a portion of the front magnet 448 can be nestedwithin a region 126 of the elastic insert 122, as discussed furtherherein. A similar arrangement can be provided for the rear magnet 498discussed above. The position of the magnets within the touch sensor 200allow the magnetic fields to be used to magnetically couple the stylusto a host device without interfering with the operation of the touchsensor 200. As the magnetic fields of the magnets can be static, thetouch sensor can be calibrated after assembly to operate in the presentof the magnetic fields.

As shown in FIG. 10, the touch sensor 200 can include multiple sensingelements 210 distributed along a longitudinal length of the stylus 100at the grip region 104. For example, the sensing elements 210 shown inFIG. 10 are distributed longitudinally so that each sensing element 210of a given column faces outwardly at a different portion of the housing110. The touch sensor 200 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, ormore than 10 sensing elements 210 along a longitudinal length. Thedistribution of sensing elements 210 provides independent sensingcapabilities at multiple locations along the longitudinal length of thestylus 100 at the grip region 104.

As shown in FIG. 11, the touch sensor 200 can be positioned radiallybetween a support member 402 and the housing 110 of the stylus 100. Inaddition, an elastic insert 122 can be positioned between the touchsensor 200 and the support member 402. With the elastic insert 122positioned radially between the support member 402 and the touch sensor200, the elastic insert 122 can bias the touch sensor 200 radiallyoutwardly against the housing 110.

The touch sensor 200 can include multiple sensing elements 210distributed circumferentially. For example, the sensing elements 210shown in FIG. 11 are distributed circumferentially so that each sensingelement 210 of a given row faces radially outwardly at a differentportion of the housing 110. The touch sensor 200 can include 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more than 10 sensing elements 210 about acircumference. The distribution of sensing elements 210 providesindependent sensing capabilities at multiple locations about thecircumference of the stylus 100 at the grip region 104.

The housing 110 can have one of a variety of cross-sectional shapes andsizes. As shown in FIG. 11, the housing 110 can include a curved portion112 and a flat portion 114. The flat portion 114 can be used tostabilize the stylus 100 against another surface, such as a workingsurface, a host device, and/or a charging station, as discussed furtherherein.

As shown in FIG. 11, the housing 110 can be curved along some or all ofan inner and/or outer surface. The housing 110 can be flat along some orall of an inner and/or outer surface. The touch sensor 200 can generallyconform to the outer shape of the support member 402 and/or the elasticinsert 122. Additionally or alternatively, the touch sensor 200 cangenerally conform to the inner shape of the housing 110, which mayinclude flat and/or curved surfaces. Where the touch sensor 200 does notdirectly contact the inner surface of the housing 110, the touch sensor200 can maintain a constant distance with respect to the housing 110, sothat the presence of a finger on the housing 110 is reliably detectableby the touch sensor 200.

While the housing 110 in FIG. 11 has non-circular (e.g., partially roundand partially flat) outer and inner cross-sectional shapes, it will beunderstood that the housing 110 can have outer and/or innercross-sectional shapes that different from the shapes of FIG. 11. Forexample, the inner and/or outer cross-sectional shapes can be circular,to provide a substantially cylindrical shape.

The touch sensor 200 can be provided initially as a sheet orsubstantially flat article that is flexible and bendable. As shown inFIG. 12, the touch sensor 200 can include multiple sensing elements 210along a sensing region 220 of the touch sensor 200. The sensing elements210 can be arranged in a pattern or grid that includes multiple rowsand/or columns. The sensing region 220 of the touch sensor 200 can beconnected to an interface region 240 by a connector region 230. Theinterface region 240 can provide one or more electrical terminals foroperatively connecting to the processing unit circuit board set 356within the front frame 420. The touch sensor can extend from an exteriorportion of the front frame 420 with the sensing region 220 to aninterior portion of the front frame 420 with the interface region 240.The connector region 230 can transition from the exterior portion to theinterior portion, for example, through a window of the front frame 420.

As shown in FIG. 13, the touch sensor 200 can extend at least partiallywithin a grip region 104 of the stylus 100 on a longitudinal side of thewireless power receiver 450. For example, the touch sensor 200 canextend along the grip region 104. The touch sensor 200 and the wirelesspower receiver 450 can be positioned along the longitudinal axis to haveno overlapping portions.

As shown in FIG. 14, the stylus 100 can include multiple touch sensors200 on opposite sides of the wireless power receiver 450. Each of themultiple touch sensors 200 can extend within a different portion of thehousing 110. The touch sensors 200 can be spaced apart from each other.At least one of the touch sensors 200 can extend along the grip region104. The touch sensors 200 and the wireless power receiver 450 can bepositioned along the longitudinal axis to have no overlapping portions.Gestures detected by the separate touch sensors 200 can be interpretedas different user inputs according to preprogrammed functions to beperformed by the stylus 100 and/or an external device upon detection ofthe user gestures.

As shown in FIG. 15, a touch sensor 200 can be positioned to extendacross the wireless power receiver 450. In this configuration, thewireless power receiver 450 can be configured to operate through thetouch sensor 200. In particular, charging can be performed when thestylus is not in use, and the touch sensor 200 can be deactivated duringa charging session.

The touch sensor 200 can be provided to cause the stylus and/or the hostdevice to perform one or more functions. While certain examples areprovided herein, it will be appreciated that any function of the stylusand/or the host device can be performed according to preprogrammedfeatures of the stylus and/or the host device. The touch sensor 200 canbe used to detect where and whether the user is gripping the stylus 100.The touch sensor 200 can be used to change, select, and/or display oneor more settings of the stylus and/or the host device. For example, thetouch sensor 200 can detect gestures and transmit a signal to the hostdevice to change, select, and/or display one or more settings thataffect performance of the stylus and/or the host device. The setting canrelate to a characteristic (e.g., color, size, width, thickness, shape,etc.) of a marking produced by use of the stylus with the host device

The touch sensor 200 can be used to detect a tap, double tap, tripletap, or another tap gesture by the user. For example, as a user appliesa finger at the grip region 104, the stylus 100 can detect the resultingcapacitance that is induced in the touch sensor 200. The user cansubsequently lift the finger, and the stylus 100 can detect theresulting capacitance or change in capacitance that is induced in thetouch sensor 200. The user can subsequently return the finger to thegrip region 104, and the stylus 100 can detect the resulting capacitanceor change in capacitance that is induced in the touch sensor 200. Thesequence of inputs within a span of time can be interpreted by thestylus 100 as a user's tap gesture. Additionally or alternatively, thetouch sensor 200 can be used to detect a sliding gesture by the user.Multiple sensing elements of the touch sensor 200 along the grip regioncan be used in concert to detect particular user inputs. Additionally oralternatively, the touch sensor 200 can be used to detect a rollinggesture by the user. The rolling gesture can include movement of afinger about a circumference of the housing 110 and/or rolling movementof the housing 110 over a surface, such as a working surface. It will beappreciated that the touch sensor 200 can be used to detect combinationsof gestures, including tap gestures, sliding gestures, rotationalgestures, and/or other gestures. For example a sequence of differentgestures in combination can be interpreted by the stylus 100 as a user'sinput.

Referring now to FIGS. 16 and 17, an elastic insert can be provided tobias the touch sensor radially outwardly against the housing and toconform to uneven surface features of the frame assembly. As shown inFIG. 16, the elastic insert 122 of the stylus can conform with adjacentfeatures of the stylus to provide secure support for the touch sensor200. As shown in FIG. 16, the elastic insert 122 can have differentregions 124, 126, and 128 in which the material of the elastic insert122 is provide with different thicknesses. For example, the elasticinsert 122 can include one or more recesses at regions 126 and/or 128 ona side thereof. FIG. 17 illustrates a side sectional view of the elasticinsert taken along line E-E of FIG. 16. As shown in FIG. 17, therecesses at regions 126 and 128 provide a locally thinned portion of theelastic insert 122, in which the thickness is less than at other regionsof the elastic insert 122 (e.g., at the first region 124). As shown inFIG. 17, the thickness at a first region 124 is greater than a thicknessat a second region 126 and/or a third region 128. The recesses can bepositioned and sized to receive a portion of the frame assembly or acomponent supported thereby. For example, the recesses at the regions126 and/or 128 can be sized and positioned to receive a magnet (e.g.,front magnet 448 and/or rear magnet 498) or a lid (e.g., lid 490)covering an opening of the frame assembly. While these features canprotrude along a surface of the frame assembly, the regions 126 and 128of the elastic insert 122 provide an even and substantially smooth outersurface along the periphery of the elastic insert 122.

The stylus 100 can be assembled by a process that provides the touchsensor 200 at a grip region 104 of the stylus 100 with the front magnet448 supported there within. For example, the touch sensor 200 and theelastic insert 122 can be provided in a flat or substantially planarconfiguration. The elastic insert 122 can be wrapped around the supportmember 402. The recesses of the elastic insert can be aligned withprotruding features of the frame assembly. The touch sensor 200 can bewrapped around the elastic insert 122.

Next, the assembly including the front frame 420, the front magnet 448,the elastic insert 122, and the touch sensor 200 can be inserted intothe housing 110. Prior to being inserted, the assembly can be oversizedsuch that an outer cross-sectional dimension (e.g. diameter) of thetouch sensor 200 is greater than an inner cross-sectional dimension(e.g., diameter) of the housing 110. Accordingly, as the assembled touchsensor 200 is inserted into the housing, 110, it will be compressed toconform to the inner surface of the housing 110. The touch sensor 200can compress along with the elastic insert 122 when inserted into thehousing 110. While within the housing 110, the elastic insert 122, undercompression, biases the touch sensor 200 against the inner surface ofthe housing. The elastic insert 122 can include one or more of a varietyof materials to provide such biasing under compression. For example, theelastic insert 122 can include a foam body, an elastomer, a matrixmaterial, or another material having elastic properties. The elasticinsert 122 can include an adhesive for bonding the touch sensor to thesupport member 402. For example, the elastic insert 122 can include apressure-sensitive adhesive that is activated upon compression.

Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, the stylus 100 can provide wirelesscharging capabilities. FIG. 18 illustrates a side sectional view of thestylus 100 taken along line C-C of FIG. 9, according to some embodimentsof the subject technology. FIG. 19 illustrates a front sectional view ofthe stylus 100 taken along line D-D of FIG. 9, according to someembodiments of the subject technology. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, thestylus 100 can include a wireless power receiver 450 that is within thehousing 110. The wireless power receiver 450 can be positioned within acharging window 416 that is formed between and/or by the front frame 420and the rear frame 470. The front frame 420 and the rear frame 470 canbe of a metallic and/or conductive material that provides adequatestructural support and shielding to components housed therein. Thewireless power receiver 450 can be positioned within the charging window416 to be receptive to electromagnetic power transfer through thehousing 110. Accordingly, the housing 110 can be of a material that isnon-conductive or otherwise transparent to electromagnetic radiationtransmitted there through.

Referring now to FIGS. 20 and 21, use of the stylus with a host devicecan provide wireless charging for the stylus. As shown in FIG. 20, awireless power receiver 450 within the housing of the stylus 100 andmultiple stylus magnets 448 and 498 positioned on opposite sides of thewireless power receiver 450. The wireless power receiver 450 and themultiple stylus magnets 448 and 498 can be positioned on a same radialside of the stylus 100 and adjacent to a flat portion 114 of thehousing. It will be understood that additional stylus magnets canoptionally be included, and that the stylus magnets can be provided inother arrangements, such as on a same longitudinal side of the wirelesspower receiver 450.

The stylus magnets 448 and 498 provide magnetic coupling tocorresponding host magnets 48 and 98 of the host device 90. As furthershown in FIG. 20, a wireless power transmitter 58 is provided by thehost device 90. The host magnets 48 and 98 can be positioned on oppositesides of the wireless power transmitter 58. The wireless powertransmitter 58 and the host magnets 48 and 98 can be positioned so that,when the stylus magnets 448 and 498 are aligned with the host magnets 48and 98, the wireless power receiver 450 is aligned with the wirelesspower receiver 450 of the host device 90. It will be understood thatadditional host magnets can optionally be included, and that the hostmagnets can be provided in other arrangements, such as on a samelongitudinal side of the wireless power transmitter 58.

The magnetic coupling can maintain the alignment during a chargingsession. The flat portion 114 of the stylus can facilitate securecoupling to an engagement portion 14 of the host device 90. For example,the engagement portion 14 of the host device 90 can provide another flatsurface or other complementary shape to facilitate physical contact ofthe opposing surfaces and maintain close proximity to the wireless powertransmitter 58 and the wireless power receiver 450. It will beunderstood that other surface shapes and features are contemplated tofacilitate contact and engagement of the stylus to the host device. Forexample, the surfaces can be flat, curved, concave, convex, undulating,stepped, tapered, or another shape to provide engagement.

Accordingly, components of a stylus and the assembly thereof areprovided in a manner that facilitates capacitive touch input, magneticcoupling with a host device, and wireless charging from the host device.The touch sensor can be integrated into an input device in a low profileform that facilitates assembly and securement of the components of thestylus. Wireless charging and magnetic coupling with a host device arealso facilitated. The stylus can be provided with the above features ina small form factor that improves a user experience with the stylus. Itwill be understood that variations in the illustrated examples can beprovided to achieve similar results.

While some embodiments of touch-based input devices disclosed hereinrelate to styluses, it will be appreciated that the subject technologycan encompass and be applied to other input devices. For example, aninput device in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein can includea phone, a tablet computing device, a mobile computing device, a watch,a laptop computing device, a mouse, a game controller, a remote control,a digital media player, and/or any other electronic device. Further, thehost device can be any device that interacts with a touch-based inputdevice. For example, a host device in accordance with embodimentsdisclosed herein can include a tablet, a phone, a laptop computingdevice, a desktop computing device, a wearable device, a mobilecomputing device, a tablet computing device, a display, a television, aphone, a digital media player, and/or any other electronic device.

Various functions described above can be implemented in digitalelectronic circuitry, in computer software, firmware or hardware. Thetechniques can be implemented using one or more computer programproducts. Programmable processors and computers can be included in orpackaged as mobile devices. The processes and logic flows can beperformed by one or more programmable processors and by one or moreprogrammable logic circuitry. General and special purpose computingdevices and storage devices can be interconnected through communicationnetworks.

Some implementations include electronic components, such asmicroprocessors, storage and memory that store computer programinstructions in a machine-readable or computer-readable medium(alternatively referred to as computer-readable storage media,machine-readable media, or machine-readable storage media). Someexamples of such computer-readable media include RAM, ROM, read-onlycompact discs (CD-ROM), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritablecompact discs (CD-RW), read-only digital versatile discs (e.g., DVD-ROM,dual-layer DVD-ROM), a variety of recordable/rewritable DVDs (e.g.,DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.), flash memory (e.g., SD cards, mini-SDcards, micro-SD cards, etc.), magnetic and/or solid state hard drives,ultra density optical discs, any other optical or magnetic media, andfloppy disks. The computer-readable media can store a computer programthat is executable by at least one processing unit and includes sets ofinstructions for performing various operations. Examples of computerprograms or computer code include machine code, such as is produced by acompiler, and files including higher-level code that are executed by acomputer, an electronic component, or a microprocessor using aninterpreter.

While the above discussion primarily refers to microprocessor ormulti-core processors that execute software, some implementations areperformed by one or more integrated circuits, such as applicationspecific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field programmable gate arrays(FPGAs). In some implementations, such integrated circuits executeinstructions that are stored on the circuit itself.

As used in this specification and any claims of this application, theterms “computer”, “processor”, and “memory” all refer to electronic orother technological devices. These terms exclude people or groups ofpeople. For the purposes of the specification, the terms “display” or“displaying” means displaying on an electronic device. As used in thisspecification and any claims of this application, the terms “computerreadable medium” and “computer readable media” are entirely restrictedto tangible, physical objects that store information in a form that isreadable by a computer. These terms exclude any wireless signals, wireddownload signals, and any other ephemeral signals.

To provide for interaction with a user, implementations of the subjectmatter described in this specification can be implemented on a computerhaving a display device as described herein for displaying informationto the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, such as a mouse or atrackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Otherkinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user aswell; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form ofsensory feedback, such as visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactilefeedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, includingacoustic, speech, or tactile input.

Many of the above-described features and applications are implemented assoftware processes that are specified as a set of instructions recordedon a computer readable storage medium (also referred to as computerreadable medium). When these instructions are executed by one or moreprocessing unit(s) (e.g., one or more processors, cores of processors,or other processing units), they cause the processing unit(s) to performthe actions indicated in the instructions. Examples of computer readablemedia include, but are not limited to, CD-ROMs, flash drives, RAM chips,hard drives, EPROMs, etc. The computer readable media does not includecarrier waves and electronic signals passing wirelessly or over wiredconnections.

In this specification, the term “software” is meant to include firmwareresiding in read-only memory or applications stored in magnetic storage,which can be read into memory for processing by a processor. Also, insome implementations, multiple software aspects of the subjectdisclosure can be implemented as sub-parts of a larger program whileremaining distinct software aspects of the subject disclosure. In someimplementations, multiple software aspects can also be implemented asseparate programs. Finally, any combination of separate programs thattogether implement a software aspect described here is within the scopeof the subject disclosure. In some implementations, the softwareprograms, when installed to operate on one or more electronic systems,define one or more specific machine implementations that execute andperform the operations of the software programs.

A computer program (also known as a program, software, softwareapplication, script, or code) can be written in any form of programminglanguage, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative orprocedural languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as astand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, orother unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computerprogram may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. Aprogram can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programsor data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup languagedocument), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or inmultiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules,sub programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployedto be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are locatedat one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by acommunication network.

It is understood that any specific order or hierarchy of blocks in theprocesses disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upondesign preferences, it is understood that the specific order orhierarchy of blocks in the processes may be rearranged, or that allillustrated blocks be performed. Some of the blocks may be performedsimultaneously. For example, in certain circumstances, multitasking andparallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation ofvarious system components in the embodiments described above should notbe understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and itshould be understood that the described program components and systemscan generally be integrated together in a single software product orpackaged into multiple software products.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the various aspects described herein. Variousmodifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilledin the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied toother aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to theaspects shown herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistentwith the language claims, wherein reference to an element in thesingular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specificallyso stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically statedotherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in themasculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., herand its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used forconvenience only and do not limit the subject disclosure.

The predicate words “configured to”, “operable to”, and “programmed to”do not imply any particular tangible or intangible modification of asubject, but, rather, are intended to be used interchangeably. Forexample, a processor configured to monitor and control an operation or acomponent may also mean the processor being programmed to monitor andcontrol the operation or the processor being operable to monitor andcontrol the operation. Likewise, a processor configured to execute codecan be construed as a processor programmed to execute code or operableto execute code

A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect isessential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to allconfigurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to anaspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. Aphrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and viceversa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that suchconfiguration is essential to the subject technology or that suchconfiguration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Adisclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations,or one or more configurations. A phrase such as a configuration mayrefer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

The word “example” is used herein to mean “serving as an example orillustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “example” is notnecessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over otheraspects or design

All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the variousaspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or latercome to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expresslyincorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed bythe claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to bededicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure isexplicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construedunder the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless theelement is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in thecase of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “stepfor.” Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or thelike is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended tobe inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” isinterpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

What is claimed is:
 1. A stylus comprising: a housing; a frame assemblywithin the housing and comprising: a first frame; and a second frame,wherein the first frame and the second frame are joined together todefine a window there between; a processing unit circuit board set atleast partially within the first frame and at least partiallyoverlapping the window; and a capacitive touch sensor extending aroundthe first frame and having multiple sensing elements distributedcircumferentially and longitudinally along an inner surface of thehousing.
 2. The stylus of claim 1, further comprising a wireless powerreceiver within the window and adjacent to the housing.
 3. The stylus ofclaim 2, wherein: the window is a charging window; and the styluscomprises: a first stylus magnet within a first window of the firstframe; and a second stylus magnet within a second window of the secondframe, wherein when the first and second stylus magnets are aligned withhost magnets of a host device, the wireless power receiver is alignedwith a wireless power transmitter of the host device.
 4. The stylus ofclaim 1, further comprising a battery pack within the second frame andoperatively connected to the processing unit circuit board set.
 5. Thestylus of claim 4, further comprising an antenna assembly comprising: anantenna extending outside of the second frame; a connector connected tothe processing unit circuit board set; and a transmission lineconnecting the antenna to the connector and extending between the secondframe and the battery pack.
 6. The stylus of claim 1, wherein thehousing has a longitudinal portion forming a substantially flat exteriorsurface extending along a length of the stylus.
 7. The stylus of claim1, further comprising an elastic insert positioned radially between thefirst frame and the capacitive touch sensor and biases the capacitivetouch sensor radially outwardly against the housing.
 8. A styluscomprising: a housing having a longitudinal portion forming asubstantially flat exterior surface extending along a length of thestylus; a wireless power receiver within the housing and adjacent to thelongitudinal portion; and a capacitive touch sensor comprising multiplesensing elements distributed circumferentially and longitudinally alongan inner surface of the housing, wherein a portion of the capacitivetouch sensor is positioned radially between the wireless power receiverand the longitudinal portion of the housing.
 9. The stylus of claim 8,further comprising a frame assembly comprises a first frame and a secondframe, wherein the first frame and the second frame are joined togetherto define a charging window and to support the wireless power receiverwithin the charging window.
 10. The stylus of claim 9, furthercomprising multiple stylus magnets for magnetically coupling to hostmagnets of a host device, the stylus magnets being within the housingand adjacent to the longitudinal portion, wherein when the stylusmagnets are aligned with the host magnets the wireless power receiver isaligned with a wireless power transmitter of the host device.
 11. Thestylus of claim 10, wherein the multiple stylus magnets comprise a firstmagnet within the first frame and a second magnet within the secondframe.
 12. The stylus of claim 11, wherein the capacitive touch sensoris positioned radially between the multiple stylus magnets and thelongitudinal portion of the housing.
 13. The stylus of claim 8, furthercomprising an elastic insert biasing the capacitive touch sensorradially outwardly against the housing.
 14. A stylus comprising: ahousing comprising a non-conductive material; a frame assembly withinthe housing and comprising a metallic material having a window; aprocessing unit circuit board set within the frame assembly; and acapacitive touch sensor comprising: a sensing region outside the frameassembly and having multiple sensing elements distributedcircumferentially and longitudinally along an inner surface of thehousing; an interface region having electrical terminals operativelyconnecting the sensing elements to the processing unit circuit board setwithin the frame assembly; and a connector region connecting the sensingregion outside the frame assembly to the interface region within theframe assembly by extending through the window of the frame assembly.15. The stylus of claim 14, wherein the frame assembly comprises: afirst frame; and a second frame, wherein the first frame and the secondframe are joined together to define the window there between.
 16. Thestylus of claim 15, further comprising a battery pack within the secondframe and operatively connected to the processing unit circuit boardset.
 17. The stylus of claim 16, further comprising an antenna assemblycomprising: an antenna extending outside of the second frame; aconnector connected to the processing unit circuit board set; and atransmission line connecting the antenna to the connector and extendingbetween the second frame and the battery pack.
 18. The stylus of claim15, further comprising a wireless power receiver within the window andadjacent to the housing.
 19. The stylus of claim 18, further comprising:a first stylus magnet within a first window of the first frame; and asecond stylus magnet within a second window of the second frame, whereinwhen the first and second stylus magnets are aligned with host magnetsof a host device, the wireless power receiver is aligned with a wirelesspower transmitter of the host device.
 20. The stylus of claim 14,further comprising an elastic insert positioned radially between theframe assembly and the capacitive touch sensor and biasing thecapacitive touch sensor radially outwardly against the housing.